Thierry Henry has opened up about the private injury conversations he had with Bukayo Saka before Arsenal's Champions League semi-final triumph over Atletico Madrid. Saka scored the decisive goal as the Gunners secured a 2-1 aggregate victory at the Emirates Stadium.
Saka's Injury Struggles
The 24-year-old England international has been managing an Achilles problem and only recently returned to action against Fulham on Saturday, where he scored before being substituted at half-time. Against Atletico, he was substituted just before the hour mark after netting the crucial goal.
Speaking on US broadcaster CBS Sports, Henry disclosed the private messages he has exchanged with Saka and how the winger continues to battle fitness concerns.
Henry's Comments
Henry said: "I would love to see if we can speak to Bukayo because I want him to explain to people that being a footballer is not always about the glamorous times. He's been questioned all season. Can he be the guy? Is he not the guy? Is he the star boy? Is he not the star boy? Is he better than him or not better than him?"
"Today, he had to play with barely any training. I know he's suffering with his Achilles tendon. I spoke to him and he came back and was like, 'I've got to be on the pitch. I've got to be on the pitch against Fulham. I have to be. It's do or die.'"
"So you have to give those guys a lot of credit. Sometimes we take it for granted. We all played through injuries. We all played with moments where you're not 100% and he had to do it, deliver it for Arsenal."
Saka's Response
Henry did get to speak with Saka and added: "I know what you went through the whole season, I know what you had to endure, what you were listening to from people. And what you had to do to be on that field, not only today but also against Fulham. Can you explain the pain, physically and mentally, to be able to reach a final?"
Saka opted not to go into details but thanked Henry for his support. The England international said: "It's not the moment. I don't want to say I'm struggling or make people feel sorry for me. As soon as I step onto that pitch, I have to be ready for the critics if I don't perform. But I'm very happy today. I've been speaking to you throughout the season. You've been there for me. You know what it's been like but today's a very special moment."
